Designed for those who want that Tour de France ‘big Alpine stage’ experience in a long weekend, we take in three countries over some challenging routes and distances. Despite its relatively short duration this is a tough tour, never more so than on Day 3 when you will climb the Grand and Petit St Bernard Cols on an epic day in the saddle.

Currently available for bookings of 4+ riders only - Priced from £950 per person

Arrive at Geneva Airport late afternoon/evening, where you’ll be met and driven the approximately 60-minute journey to your accommodation in Les Carroz. If you haven’t taken advantage of our Bike Transfer service you’ll have time to unpack your bike before we get together for an informal briefing on the days ahead.

Day 2 – Samoëns to Champex - 125km

Today’s ride introduces you to Alps right from the first pedal stroke, and what an introduction it is! After a warm-up in the foothills you’ll hit the Col de Joux Plane (1700m), where ‘the pirate’ Marco Pantani set the bench mark of 33 minutes. On your descent you’ll turn your mind to the next challenge: the 6km climb of Col Du Corbier (1237m). Your reward for tackling the steeper western slope is the open and sweeping hairpins of your descent. With over 50km in the legs we begin the steady but not overly demanding climb to the Swiss border pass, Pas de Morgins. At the top there is time for the obligatory Col sign photo. There may be one sign in France and another in Switzerland, but sadly, it still only counts as one Col! With the day’s challenge completed you descend to a well-earned break and overnight stay in Champex.

Landmark Climb: Col de Joux Plane.

Day 3 – Champex to Séez - 150km

Now, for the real reason we’re here. On Day 3 you face the big boys. After heading out of Switzerland, you’ll dip into Italy before heading towards France. Leaving your accommodation the first stop of the day is the Col du Grand Bernard. A true giant of the Alps, it’s 2469 metres high and 45km to the top. The road can be busy but around 6km from the summit you turn off onto cycling Nirvana: quiet roads, steep climbs and stunning views. Enjoy the panorama from the literal peak of this particular tour before a long descent down into Italy for the start of the second climb of the day: Col du Petit Bernard. Not as small as its name might suggest, standing at 2200 metres, it does have a less savage gradient than its big brother but at 30km, the climb is still long. Dog lovers will enjoy the giant statue of a St Bernard as you wind your way down to your accommodation in Séez .

Landmark Climbs: Col du Grand St. Bernard and Col de Petit St. Bernard.

After conquering the big, bad Bernards yesterday, today’s itinerary might look like a walk in the park. There may be nothing over 2,000 metres here, but it will be another hard day in the saddle, albeit with our back-up support. Cormet de Roselend (1968m), Col des Saisies (1650m), Col des Aravis (1498m) and finally Col de la Columbière (1680m) all appear on the menu today.

Here at Red Lantern Cycling it’s our intention to challenge rather than break you, so the Columbière is approached from its more forgiving side, and there is also an escape route via Megève, if you feel enough is enough. This cuts around 20km off the journey and bypasses the last three Cols on your way back to your accommodation for the night. Put your feet up and reflect on an exhilarating last few days before your transfer to the airport for your flight home the following day.